The article expresses deep concern and frustration over ongoing issues of horse abuse within the equestrian sport, highlighted by the Andrew McConnon case and others. The author, an adult amateur and passionate supporter of the sport, shares a personal struggle with maintaining enthusiasm amid repeated allegations and what they perceive as inadequate responses from governing bodies. They criticize the current system for dismissing reports, protecting offenders, and failing to implement meaningful reforms, which risks alienating dedicated participants and fans who sustain the industry.

The piece calls for urgent, concrete action to address the root causes of abuse, improve mental health support, and reform reporting and disciplinary processes to genuinely protect horses and uphold the sport’s integrity. The author warns that without significant change, the sport risks losing its community’s trust and support, potentially leading to its decline. Despite the bleak outlook, they hold onto hope that the equestrian community can collectively take responsibility, enact real change, and preserve the sport they love before it is too late.